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In the cup: Layered and complex with botanical tones of rosehip and rhubarb and the zesty sparkle of lemon and lime.
SCA score: 86 points
Mouthfeel: Tea-like, silky
Varieties: Bourbon, Kent, SL28, SL34
Process: Fully Washed
Producer: Nyeri - Kambu Kooperative
Altitude: 1400 - 1800 m.a.s.l.
Region: Nyeri
Background:
Acacias is a selection of the best coffees from across what used to be called the Central Province. The province disappeared in 2013 when the country changed to a system of counties instead, though the Central Province is still often referred to as it had a strong reputation for quality coffee growing. Handpicked when ripe, cherry is delivered to the wet mill the same day to ensure no uncontrolled fermentation occurs, where it is sorted again and then pulped. River water is used for processing and recirculated before disposal, with the coffee being sent out to soak in tanks in what is known as the ‘Kenyan’ style – an additional 8-16 hours of soaking under clean water which helps to bring clarity to the cup and prolongs the qualities of acidity before drying under the sun
The ‘SL’ name is derived from the Scott Laboratories research programme that was operating in Kenya in the 1920’s and 30’s. It was established by the colonial British government and its purpose was to provide guidance and training to the region’s local farmers.
As part of this study, a portion a land was dedicated to the growing of coffee and a large number of plants from various different origins were planted and studied to determine yield, quality and resistance to drought and disease. The findings of this study influenced the technical advice provided to the region’s farmers and estate owners and, as such, paved the way for Kenya to become one of the most highly-regarded producers of coffee in the world.
The original and most sought-after SL variety that was discovered during this study was the SL28 variety. the SL28 variety was extremely resistant to disease and drought and, although it didn’t have a substantial yield, it was widely recognised for its exceptional taste - often described as notes of blackcurrant, berries and citrus.
Another SL variety discovered during the research was the SL34. Much like the SL28 variety, this was selected and cultivated from a single plant crop and was chosen due to its tolerance to altitude and rainfall. It's extremely versatile as it's not sensitive to changes in climate and conditions, although unlike the SL28, is found to produce higher yields. In terms of taste, you’ll find many similarities with the SL28. Their similar taste profiles, as well as the effects of their different growing conditions make these varietals harmonise well and, as a result, are a very popular pairing.